The Olive is among the oldest known cultivated trees in the world. Those on the Mount of Olives in Jerusalem are over 2000 years old. The Qur’an describes the olive tree as blessed (24:35). Studies prove its health benefits:
- Most of the fatty acids in olives and olive oil are mono-unsaturated which do not contain cholesterol. Therefore, olive oil does not raise cholesterol levels. It is recommended for patients with heart disease.
- Studies show that women who consume more olive oil have a lower risk (up to 50%) of developing breast cancer. Olive oil protects against intestinal cancer and malignant tumours like prostate.Olive oil is effective in reducing high blood pressure.
- People who consume large quantities of olive oil and cooked vegetables can have reduced risk of rheumatic arthritis.
On account of all this, olive oil has attracted a lot of expert attention in recent years. Supermarket shelves now hold olive oil and olive oil margarines. Muslims knew that olive oil was special 1400 years ago.
